Nunavut puts $1 million into tourism, crafts

Peter Taptuna, Nunavut’s economic development minister, announces $1 million in funding for tourism promotion. The money, which will roll out over the next three years, will help communities and artists capitalize on tourism, Taptuna said. (PHOTO BY CHRIS WINDEYER)

Nunavut will spend more than $1 million over the next three years to help Nunavut artists capitalize on the territory’s fledgling tourism industry.

Peter Taptuna, Nunavut’s economic development and transportation minister, said Sept. 28 the money will help fund new retail space for arts and crafts businesses, marketing, coordination for cruise ship visits and community cleanups.

“It’s time for tourism to be connected to our cultural industries and this program will make that connection happen,” Taptuna said during a news conference at the Nunavut Trade Show in Iqaluit.

He said the program will help artisans to make more sales to visitors and support a diverse range of jobs connected to tourism.

Speaking to reporters, Taptuna said investing in cultural industries will also contribute to reducing poverty.

“[When] people are participating in the economic activity of small communities, it reduces poverty,” he said.

Nunavut is trying to grow its tourism sector and Taptuna said the production of arts and culture is one of the territory’s main draws for outside visitors.

But tourism growth is constrained by the high cost of travelling to and around Nunavut, Taptuna acknowledged, adding that’s why the Government of Nunavut focuses its tourism promotion efforts on wealthier travellers.

He also cautioned that creating a thriving tourism sector takes time.

“We do have to plan carefully, strategize and attract those people who can afford to come up here,” Taptuna said.

The money for infrastructure and marketing will be awarded to communities who apply for specific projects, said Karen Kabloona, the director for tourism and cultural industries for ED&T, while money that promotes “a positive community image” will be administered by the hamlets.